Articular fracture fixation system and method

Abstract

Provided herein is an osteosynthesis device for articular fracture fixation, more particularly for fixation of shoulder, knee, elbow, ankle and wrist fractures. The osteosynthesis device comprises an articular supportive plate for supporting the articular surface of a long bone, said articular supportive plate comprising (i) at least one pin receiving feature for receiving a pin or a screw; and (ii) at least one fin projecting from a first side of said articular supportive plate, said fin being provided with one or more pin receiving features for receiving a pin or screw. Further provided herein are systems for articular fracture fixation, and methods of fixating an articular fracture in a long bone using such systems.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]Provided herein are devices and systems for articular fracture fixation, more particularly for fixation of shoulder, knee, elbow, ankle or wrist fractures. Further provided are methods of fixating an articular fracture using such devices and systems.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]Articular fractures, and more particularly proximal humeral fractures, are a frequent event often seen in elderly patients, and comprise about 5% of all fractures. Although many proximal humeral fractures are stable injuries which can be treated non-operatively, surgical intervention is required in about 20% of all cases, particularly with complex fractures. However, complex fractures of the proximal humerus are notoriously difficult to manage, particularly in elderly patients. Indeed, internal fixation is difficult because of the small size of the bone fragments and the quality of the bone stock is often poor due to osteoporosis. In addition to these mechanical problems, there...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0039]The use of the devices and systems described herein may significantly facilitate reduction of the fracture, and may reduce the risk of damaging the bone during reduction. Moreover, the devices and systems described herein may allow for the use of relatively short screws, thereby reducing the risk of perforation of the caput humeri and potential resulting glenoid cavity damage. Moreover, the combination of a diaphyseal

Problems solved by technology

However, complex fractures of the proximal humerus are notoriously difficult to manage, particularly in elderly patients.

Indeed, internal fixation is difficult because of the small size of the bone fragments and the quality of the bone stock is often poor due to osteoporosis.

In addition to these mechanical problems, there further is a risk of avascular necrosis of the humeral head (caput humeri).

However, especially in case of osteoporotic bone, the relatively long screws, situated in the subchondral plate to enhance stability may perforate the caput humeri completely, and cause damage to the glenoid cavity.

Moreover, locking plates may provide for fixation, but do not pro

Images